Best Products > Computer Components 134 134 people found this article helpful The Best USB TV Tuners of 2024 Watch free TV on your computer By David Beren David Beren Writer Nova Southeastern University David Beren is a former tech and commerce writer for Lifewire with 10+ years' experience. He has written and managed content for companies like T-Mobile, Sprint, and TracFone Wireless and contributor for sites like WebGeekStuff and MakeTechEasier. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on March 8, 2024 We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Computer Components Cards Monitors Keyboards Mice CPU USB/USB-C Storage Laptop Bags & Backpacks Printers The best USB TV tuners allow you to watch television on your computer for free. You can easily watch TV on the go or bounce from room to room without missing a second of your favorite programs. The Rundown Best Overall: Hauppauge WinTV-DualHD Dual USB 2.0 HD TV Tuner at Amazon ($80) Jump to Review Best for Tablets & Phones: AllAboutAdapters Digital TV Tuner at Amazon ($30) Jump to Review Best Overall Hauppauge WinTV-DualHD Dual USB 2.0 HD TV Tuner Amazon View On Amazon $80 Pros Includes a helpful remote No need to buy a separate antenna (in some areas) Users like the included software USB extender helps with tight spaces Cons Some users have issues with the remote Software key is too easy to lose Plugging directly into the USB port on your Windows computer, the Hauppauge WinTV-DualHD USB TV tuner is an excellent choice for viewers who want to enjoy multiple channels simultaneously. The Dual TV lets users select one channel to watch and allows them to record another at the same time. Another possibility is having two simultaneous streams open simultaneously, thanks to picture-in-picture. A portable TV antenna for increased signal reception and remote control, a USB extension cable, and an activation code for the WinTV Windows application are included. Once installed, buyers can enjoy over-the-air ATSC HDTV and ClearQAM digital cable TV in full HD quality (even in full screen). You also can schedule to record digital programming. It's compatible with Plex Media Server software, meaning users can also upload shows to Linux and Android devices, including the NVIDIA Shield. Best for Tablets & Phones AllAboutAdapters Digital TV Tuner Amazon View On Amazon $30 Pros Quick setup Included antenna works well Priced right Cons Mixed user reviews about software stability Must have a disc drive to install the software The AllAboutAdapters USB Digital ATSC Clear QAM TV tuner is a budget-friendly option for cord-cutters looking for a quick and easy way to get up and running with free TV programming. The USB-based ATSC SD/HD TV tuner offers connectivity to both Windows laptop and desktop PC offerings with free over-the-air digital programming across North America. The ClearQAM tuner can decode unencrypted QAM channels and offer local broadcast stations, public-access channels, or private QAM channels. While the price is wallet-friendly, the TV tuner has closed captions, electronic programming, pauses, rewinds, fast forwards, and skipping commercials. Directly supporting the burn-to-disc function, the TV tuner adds the option to instantly record in real-time or schedule recordings in advance with an output of 1080p Full HD. FAQ How do USB digital TV tuners work? USB TV tuners act as antennas for your monitor, PC, or laptop, letting you watch free TV channels on devices even if you don't have a cable provider. Getting it to work is pretty simple; you only need to plug it into a USB port. Can you use a USB TV tuner with a monitor? Unfortunately, using a TV tuner without a monitor is impossible. A TV tuner isn't a streaming device like a Chromecast. Even if your monitor has a USB port, you'll still need to put your laptop or PC to make it work. What USB TV tuners work with NextPVR? NextPVR is a personal video recorder program for Windows, Linux, and Mac. It allows you to watch and record live TV. If you want to use it with a USB TV tuner, it's just a matter of getting it properly installed and configured and then using the TV tuner you choose. If your USB TV tuner works with your laptop or PC, it should work alright with NextPVR. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit